Last updated: January 18, 2025
Abstract:
Extremadura, located in southwestern Spain, is characterized by a Mediterranean climate classified under the Köppen-Geiger system as Csa and Csb. This region experiences a significant temperature range, with minimum temperatures dropping to -9°C (17°F) in February and soaring to a maximum of 45°C (113°F) during July. The average annual temperature hovers around 16°C (62°F), reflecting a warm climate with hot summers and mild winters. This climatic variability influences local ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources, making it a pivotal area for understanding the impacts of climate in Mediterranean regions.
In Extremadura, Spain, temperature exhibits notable seasonal variation, with minimum temperatures ranging from -9°C (17°F) in February to 5°C (42°F) in July and August. Average monthly temperatures fluctuate between 7°C (45°F) in January and 26°C (79°F) during the peak summer months of July and August. Maximum temperatures reach their zenith at 45°C (113°F) in both July and August, illustrating the region's hot Mediterranean climate. The transition from winter to summer sees significant warming, with May averaging 19°C (66°F) and the subsequent months experiencing sharp increases, culminating in peak values around 30°C (87°F) in April and 38°C (100°F) in May. This temperature profile underscores the extremes common in Mediterranean climates, significantly influencing local agricultural practices and natural ecosystems.
The temperature in Extremadura varies significantly across its towns, notably in Merida, Caceres, and Jerte. In Merida, temperatures can drop to a minimum of -4°C (25°F) in January and rise to a scorching 44°C (111°F) in August, reflecting the intense summer heat; for detailed insights, see the monthly temperature in Merida. In Caceres, the temperature follows a similar trend, with a January minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 43°C (110°F) in August, making it a region of climatic extremes; explore further details in the monthly temperature in Caceres. Meanwhile, Jerte experiences its coldest temperatures at -8°C (18°F) in February, while summer peaks reach around 36°C (98°F) in August; for more specifics, check the monthly temperature in Jerte. This temperature diversity not only shapes local climate conditions but also influences agriculture and residents' lifestyle across Extremadura.
Precipitation in Extremadura exhibits a seasonal pattern, with the majority of rainfall concentrated in the winter and spring months. January receives an average of 37 mm (1 in) of rain over approximately 5 days, while February sees an increase to 51 mm (2 in) across 5 days. The trend continues in March, which records 84 mm (3 in) of rainfall over 8 days. April's precipitation remains substantial at 80 mm (3 in) but occurs over a higher frequency of 12 days, signaling the transition into the warmer months. By May, rainfall decreases to 35 mm (1 in) over 5 days, leading into the dry summer season.
In the summer, particularly July and August, Extremadura experiences minimal precipitation, with July averaging only 6 mm (0 in) and August slightly higher at 8 mm (0 in), both having very few rainy days. The fall brings a moderate revival in rainfall, with September receiving 35 mm (1 in) over 3 days and October producing 67 mm (3 in) across 5 days. The year concludes with November and December receiving 80 mm (3 in) and 72 mm (3 in) of rain, respectively, accompanied by 10 days and 7 days of precipitation. This annual cycle of rain supports agriculture and water resources critical to the Extremadura region.
Extremadura enjoys a substantial amount of sunshine throughout the year, with hours peaking during the summer months. January starts the year with 198 hours of sunshine, increasing to 254 hours in February. The transition into spring brings further enhancement, with March experiencing 318 hours and April slightly more at 341 hours. May leads into early summer, boasting 403 hours of sunshine, and June follows closely with 408 hours, making these months particularly vibrant for outdoor activities and agriculture.
The sunniest month in Extremadura is July, where residents and visitors can enjoy approximately 432 hours of sunshine. As summer wanes, August still provides a healthy 403 hours, but a gradual decline begins in September with 348 hours. October sees a further reduction to 320 hours, while November and December register 251 hours and 238 hours, respectively. This seasonal variation in sunshine duration significantly influences local climate, agriculture, and general lifestyle, making Extremadura a popular destination for those seeking sun-filled days.
The UV Index in Extremadura varies significantly throughout the year, reflecting changes in sunlight intensity and exposure. In the winter months, January and December register lower UV levels at 3, while February shows a slight increase to 5. As spring approaches, the UV Index climbs steadily, reaching 7 in March and peaking at 9 in April. The beginning of summer heralds a critical phase for UV exposure, with May soaring to 10, followed by June's peak of 12, indicating a heightened risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure.
During the summer months, July's UV Index decreases slightly to 11, while August maintains a level of 10. As the season transitions into autumn, September experiences a reduction to 9, with further declines to 7 in October and 4 in November. The year concludes with January mirroring the December levels at 3. This fluctuation in UV Index values underscores the importance of sun protection, particularly in late spring and summer, as Extremadura's sunny climate can lead to increased UV exposure throughout the year.
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Daylight duration in Extremadura varies significantly across the seasons, providing distinct experiences throughout the year. In January, the average daylight lasts around 9 hours, gradually increasing to 10 hours in February. The arrival of spring brings notable changes, with March seeing daylight extend to 11 hours and April further increasing to 13 hours. May marks the transition into summer, with an average of 14 hours of daylight, a duration that is maintained through June and July, making these months particularly vibrant for outdoor activities.
As summer wanes, daylight duration begins to decrease, starting with 13 hours in August, followed by 12 hours in September. The decline continues into autumn, with October averaging 11 hours and November dropping back to 9 hours. By December, daylight duration once again stands at 9 hours, completing the cycle. This fluctuation in daylight significantly impacts daily life in Extremadura, influencing everything from agricultural practices to recreational activities, as residents optimize their time in the sun throughout the year.
Cáceres, Spain, experiences a diverse climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) in January to a maximum of 43°C (109°F) in July and August. Precipitation is more abundant in spring and autumn, with peaks in March (72 mm) and November (66 mm). The region enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in the summer months, with July boasting the most hours at 433. For more detailed information, visit Caceres climate.
The climate in Jerte, Spain, showcases a marked variation between seasons, characterized by cold winters and warm summers. January temperatures can drop to -8°C (19°F), while July often peaks at 35°C (96°F). Precipitation is highest in the spring and autumn months, particularly in March (147 mm) and November (151 mm), with significant rainfall also noted in February (105 mm) and December (148 mm). Sunshine hours are abundant, particularly in summer, with July offering around 434 hours of sunlight. For more detailed information, visit Jerte climate.
Merida, Spain, experiences a diverse climate characterized by cold winters and hot summers. January sees temperatures ranging from -4°C to 20°C, while May marks the transition to warmer months, with averages reaching 20°C and maximums soaring to 37°C. The peak summer months of July and August can be particularly sweltering, with temperatures hitting 44°C. Precipitation is moderate, peaking in March with 70 mm, while summer months typically receive minimal rainfall. For more detailed information, visit Merida climate.
In conclusion, Extremadura's climate is marked by its Mediterranean characteristics, highlighted by significant variations in temperature, precipitation, sunshine duration, UV index, and daylight hours throughout the year. The region experiences hot summers and mild winters, with notable peaks in temperature during July and August. Precipitation patterns are most pronounced in the cooler months, while summer brings a dry spell, making sunshine duration particularly long and vibrant during this season. The UV index levels underscore the importance of sun protection, especially in spring and summer months. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for locals and visitors alike, as they influence agricultural practices, outdoor activities, and overall lifestyle in this diverse and sunny region of Spain.